Give to organizations that support not just those with mental illnesses, but that also support the research to find new treatment options for the illnesses.

Funding for research of mental illness lags far behind other therapeutic areas in public and private funding.  There are many ways that you can help fund research.  

Here are some things you can do right now to promote mental health research:

Join and donate to organizations that support mental health research.

Donations to mental health advocacy groups have advanced scientific research as much as large public or private research funding.  Enthusiasm for research, promotion of and volunteerism for studies often increases when there is more investment from the groups funding some of their own research.

• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) primary responsibility in terms of research is to ensure that people affected by mental health conditions, the individual and their families, have access to the most current information regarding mental health conditions and their treatments. NAMI is supportive of research that will lead to novel and effective treatments for people with mental illness. This support includes ongoing advocacy for research that will improve the lives of individuals and their families. It also includes informing people of ongoing research on various therapies, including clinical trials for new medications. You can donate to NAMI here.
• The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation is committed to alleviating the suffering caused by mental illness by awarding grants that will lead to advances and breakthroughs in scientific research. 100% of every dollar donated for research is invested in our research grants. More information can be found here.
• The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is the largest funder of research on mental disorders in the world. All donations are applied by the NIMH Director toward activities to support research on mental health disorders and can be made by check or money order only.  More information can be found here.
• Mental Health America (MHA) is dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental health and substance use conditions and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans. More information on their position on psychiatric research can be found here.
• The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) envisions wellness for people living with mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder). DBSA supports the efforts of scientists and clinicians to develop new and more effective treatments for mood disorders. More information on their position on clinical research can be found here.
• The Quell Foundation strives to reduce the number of suicides, overdoses and the incarceration of people living with mental health illness. They offer scholarships to individuals that are committed to creating a brighter future in the mental health field. Find more information here.

Sponsor Walks, Runs, and other community events that bring awareness to mental health illnesses and mental health research.

Donate to and support mental health awareness and fundraising events that raise funds, combat stigma, and promote awareness of mental illness. There are hundreds of these events and activities, which are usually listed in your local paper in the community section, or you can find a local NAMI Walk here.